Make Your Own Pikachu Bookmark

Now you can embrace the Pokemon craze while encouraging reading in your classroom with this Pikachu bookmark. All you need is a recycled file folder to get you started. I love the idea of using the bookmark as an incentive in the classroom. Once a student hits a certain reading goal, they get to create their own Pikachu. Here’s the how-to video, and then you’ll find full instructions below it.

What You Need

Old manila file folder

Pencil

Ruler

Scissors

Duct tape, yellow

Red and black permanent marker

Tacky craft glue

White out

Self-adhesive magnetic tape

What to Do

STEP 1. Using a ruler, pencil, and scissors measure, mark and cut out a 1 3/4-in. x 5-in. rectangle from the folded edge of a manila folder, cutting through both sides. At the same time, trace a circle (about 1 3/4-inch across).

STEP 2. Cover both the rectangle and circle with yellow Duct tape.

STEP 3. With one of the rectangle sides facing you, lightly draw triangles down the front and sides to create a lightning bolt shape. Cut both sides out with scissors.

STEP 4. Fold a piece of yellow tape together. Then cut out Pikachu’s ears (see video if you’re unsure about this step).

STEP 5. Use glue to adhere ears to head and head to lightning bolt body. Let dry for at least half an hour.

STEP 6. Using a black marker, draw tips on the ears. Also, draw eyes, a nose, and a mouth. Then use the black marker to add black diamonds along the edges of the lightning bolt. Using the red marker, draw red cheeks. Finally, use white out to add white dots to the eyes.

STEP 7. To help Pikachu stay in place, cut off two small bits of magnet tape, and adhere to both sides of the lighting bolt near the bottom of the bookmark.